Keeping of Bees
For beekeeping within the townsites of Byford, Mundijong, Jarrahdale and Serpentine, you will need to obtain a permit from the Shire. Residents in areas outside of these town sites are permitted to keep bee hives, provided that they do not cause a nuisance.
How many hives can I have?
- On land that is less than 2,000 metres² - the occupier can have up to two bee hives.
- On land that is between 2,000 metres² and 20,000 metres² - the occupier can have up to 15 bee hives.
Conditions of keeping bees?
A person who keeps bees and hives is to ensure that:
- There is an adequate and accessible water supply.
- Each bee hive is kept at a specified distance from any thoroughfare, boundary or public place.
- Each bee hive is located near a screen or other barrier to prevent bees flying low over a thoroughfare, public place or adjoining land.
At any point should the Shire Officers determine that a person has contravened any provision of the Beekeepers Act 1963 or the Beekeeping Local Law, a written notice to remove all bees and hives will be issued.
Application for permit to keep bees
If you live within a townsite and wish to keep bee hives, an application form must be submitted to the Manager of Building and Health. Along with the application form, the following should be attached:
- Copy of registration under section 8 of the Beekeepers Act 1963.
- A site plan of the property the hives are to be kept on, detailing;
- Size of property.
- Water available.
- Distances from thoroughfare, public places and boundaries.
- Location of hives.
- Any other documentation as required by Local Government.
- Fee of $67.50.
For further information, please contact Health Services on 9526 1111 or by email info@sjshire.wa.gov.au